Under new captain Shubman Gill, India embarked on a five Test campaign (June 20-Aug 4), contesting the inaugural Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. The series opened dramatically at Headingley, where England chased a historic 371 to win by five wickets despite conceding five centuries, making landmark history. Gill’s leadership stood out early he hit centuries in both opening Tests 127* at Headingley and 114* at Edgbaston becoming the first Indian skipper to notch twin centuries in his first two Tests and scoring a monumental 269 in the second Test, his maiden double hundred. Despite his exploits, India remained behind 1-0. The third Test at Lord’s was an epic showdown. England triumphed by just 22 runs in a pulsating finish, thanks mainly to an all‑round display by Ben Stokes (77 & five wickets) and a fiery spell by Jofra Archer. Shifts in sledging intensity brought drama, notably Siraj’s aggressive dismissal celebration and Gill’s sarcastic clap Harry Brook admitted the escalation “added pressure on the Indian team”. Tensions ran high, with Siraj later expressing emotional disappointment “Dekho, desh ke liye khelta hoon” (“I play for the country”). England’s strategic pivot adopting Brendon McCullum’s “Bazball” ethos included aiming to be less “nice” on field, a shift Brook credited for shifting momentum. With England leading 2-1, they entered the fourth Test at Old Trafford (July 23-27) with confidence, aided by fresh inclusion of Liam Dawson and a full strength Indian bowling attack, including Jasprit Bumrah. Despite Gill's brilliant batting and spirited fightback, India trailed 2-1 in a fiercely competitive contest. England’s aggressive mindset and nerve in edge of the seat finishes have set the stage for a crucial finale.